GROUP 5 - WORKING DOGS

History

Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) were first bred in Pembrokeshire in Southern Wales as cattle dogs, or ‘homestead’ dogs. The breed is a combination of the local herding dogs, much like the black and tan Lancashire Heelers, and the Spitz breeds, like Vallhunds, brought over by the Vikings who landed around the Pembrokeshire coast.

The Cardigan Corgi was also originally bred to work closely with the farmers of Wales as a herder of cattle, guard dog and companion. These qualities mean that, even today, a typical Corgi likes to organise its family and is resilient and innovative.

Appearance

The Welsh Corgi (Pembroke and Cardigan) is a low-set dog with a body somewhat long in proportion to its short legs. It is sturdy, but athletic and active. The breed’s head has a foxy quality and appearance, with large upright ears and a bushy tail that should be carried high when the dog is excited or moving.

The Cardigan has a short or medium-length coat which comes in an intriguingly wide range of colours including red, sable, brindle, black, blue merle and black and tan.

Temperament

The Cardigan Corgi is biddable, ready to please, as well as independent and resourceful. The breed is totally devoted to those it loves and can adjust to almost any lifestyle, be it herding livestock or living in a city apartment.

Health

The Welsh Corgi is a robust, generally healthy dog with an average life expectancy of 12-16  years, and often it is still very healthy and playful up until the end. There are no very common health issues, but the breed can have Hip Dysplasia and Von Willebrand Disease, a blood clotting disorder. Knowledgeable breeders have tests for these and screen breeding stock so that these conditions do not become more common.

Maintenance

The Cardigan Corgi’s short coat requires no stripping or trimming, but will benefit from a daily brush and an occasional bath. The breed is perfectly happy with a small yard, as long as the owner takes it on a brisk walk daily.

Suitability

The Corgi makes a great family pet and loves to join in all the family activities. Because it is highly intelligent and a herding dog, the breed is at its best when it is well trained. Its best feature is its huge personality – the breed is full of fun and excels as a watchdog, as it has a keen ear and a remarkable memory.

Words: Robin Robertson and Jean Georgiou on behalf of the Welsh Corgi Club of NSW

Image: Shutterstock.com

In Conclusion

Now you know a little about the Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) you may have think that this is the dog for you. Before you make a decision, please make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) and its needs and whether this breed would suit your lifestyle.